CLEVELAND, Ohio - First the RNC, then LeBron, then the Cleveland Foundation grant for Public Square ... now there's more good news for downtown Cleveland.

The National Endowment for the Arts announced Wednesday its new grantees for the $100,000 Our Town Grant program include a joint project of Cleveland organizations LAND Studio and Ingenuity, with support from Positively Cleveland and the Downtown Cleveland Alliance (DCA).

The joint project, called "Curb Appeal," is a yearlong project combining public art projects with ongoing programming along East Ninth Street, from spring 2015 through spring 2016.

"There's a gap between East Fourth Street and Playhouse Square -- you can feel that gap. This is like stitching it together and making it whole," said James Krouse, IngenuityFest artistic director.

LAND Studio and Ingenuity are seeking are seeking matching funds to double the $100,000.

"This joint effort between LAND Studio and Ingenuity demonstrates the best in creative community development and will have a valuable impact on its community," said NEA Chairman Jane Chu in a statement. "Through Our Town funding, arts organizations continue to spark vitality that support neighborhoods and public spaces, enhancing a sense of place for residents and visitors alike."

LAND Studio will lead "Curb Appeal's" public enhancements, adding elements such as artist and designer-inspired seating, storefront displays, murals, lighting and greenery to the street. Ingenuity will program the street space, vacant storefronts and other interior spaces with performances, pop-up shops, pop-up comedy and concert clubs and other events, said Krouse.

"This generous support will provide a major catalyst for the project, helping connect public assets through engaging public spaces, and continue the renaissance in downtown Cleveland," said Ann Zoller, executive director of LAND Studio.

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